Stengel Lisa C

I had more respect for her 8 years ago when she had an assistant. Twice I've needed her services during this time period and things seemed fine. I paid a decent size retainer fee both time. Things went smoothly first round - I did not use all the money I paid her - nothing back. Different kind of case a couple years ago, paid more money $3k upfront, things were resolved on their own short time after she received payment. I have not receive a penny back. I have sent emails (which I'm sure I'm being charged for) and numerous phone calls. Nothing. I am sure I am out at minimum 4k, but really don't know. I don't receive any type of statement now that she doesn't have an admin. Curious as to where my money is.... ????

She did a very good job when she did it. She very nice and helpful, but be very prepared to wait for returned phone calls and emails. She takes her time in getting back to you on anything. Also be prepared to not receive a bill from her until the end. She won't tell you any amount owed until then and then surprise, you get this huge bill! She won't tell you when the retainer is up and when you she starts billing you for other thigs. Very inappropriate to not keep your clients informed of where there money is going.

Very compassionate about her job. I would definitely refer her to anyone who is seeking assistance within the family law realm. Really knowledgable and allowed me to feel comfortable through the whole process. Others that said she took too much time may have looked past the idea that she puts a lot of time into your case and will not rush into situations or compromises. Felt like she was really looking out for my best interest. Highly recommend.

She knows her job but she lets you make your own decision without advising you what is good and bad and other available choises. It's like paying so much for her but she only does what you tell her to do and if you don't know much about family law then it's like you representating yourself in court. She spends time with ex-hubby (talking, joking, laughing in front of me...disrespectful) and billed me for that time too. She does not finish her work on time...never return phone calls. Take caution when hiring her!

Though good at what she does, be prepared to wait, a lot. She doesn't return calls in a timely mannar and does things as last minute as possible, including changing judges when assigned to her husband, she waits till the last second to say oh and by the way we can't have him judging this and then things get delayed. HIGHLY annoying.